The latest environmental trends, consumer attitudes and technology advancements have more utilities poised to launch demand-response programs, but whether or not those programs get off the ground remains to be seen, utility research firm Chartwell reports in its latest industry publications.

In fact, while the proportion of utilities offering customers demand-response programs has remained steady, those planning or considering such programs have increased significantly, reveal 2007 Chartwell survey results. For example, 22% of utilities report planning or considering special rates that encourage peak load management for residential customers. Fifteen percent are planning or considering a residential air conditioner cycling program; only 1% reported planning or considering such a program on a 2006 survey.

Metering and data analysis technology may also contribute toward the movement. More than half of all utilities using, planning or considering advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) intend to leverage the technology for demand response programs, according to Chartwell data. Nearly three quarters of those same utilities are planning or considering AMI-enabled time-dynamic rates.

These are some of the findings outlined in two new companion Chartwell reports, AMI-Enabled Demand Response 2007 and Marketing & Communicating Demand Response.